While many things have changed in Berks County over the past 49 years, in Hamburg, one thing has remained the same: the borough’s annual King Frost Parade. And for the last 29 of those 49 years, one man has sat upon the throne as King Frost himself: M. Domer Leibensperger—and this, his 30th Anniversary, will be the most exciting year yet.
History of a King
The King Frost tradition was started in 1910 by Jack Walker in hopes of giving Hamburg an annual Halloween celebration that was fit for…well, a king. The King Frost hoopla ran rather successfully for a number of decades until local traffic and world events nearly derailed it for good in 1940. But the legend lived on.
More than two decades and two new highways later, in 1964, Hamburg’s Jaycees stepped up to remedy the problem of the gaping hole left in Halloween night nearly 24 years earlier. They revived King Frost, bringing the celebration to a whole new level of fun and giving Hamburg a much-needed reprieve from the toils of everyday life. They’ve been doing so ever since.
The New Jaycees
In the past few years, thanks in part to the country’s economic downturn, membership for the Hamburg Jaycees has been a bit low—but now, that’s all changed.
“The energy level this year is astounding,” says Derek Leibensperger of Leibensperger Funeral Homes, also this year’s parade Chair. “Thanks to Carla Kramer, President of the Pennsylvania State Jaycees, we have about 20 new members,” he continues. “This one’s going to be big. Sponsorship letters are out; we’re getting a huge response.”
What to Expect
In past years, upwards of 20,000 visitors have come to Hamburg solely for the purpose of participating in the King Frost festivities. Often serving as a homecoming of sorts, they travel from lands far and wide with hopes of keeping a treasured tradition alive and well. It seems their efforts have paid off.
More floats are expected in this year’s parade than ever before and registration doesn’t even end until 10pm the night prior to the event (though you would stand a better chance of being in the parade’s first half if you register by the weekend before). While it doesn’t cost a penny to participate, sponsors are expected to donate $150 or more—a small price to pay when compared to the free advertising you receive as your float makes its way through town (and tens of thousands of people).
When & Where
This year’s King Frost celebration will take place on Saturday, Oct. 27 (traditionally, the last Saturday of the month), at 7pm, with a rain date of Nov. 3. Starting at the junction of Port Clinton Avenue and 3rd Street, the parade will wind its way down 3rd, take a sharp left at Maple, and then continue back down 4th Street, finishing at Franklin.
Ample parking will be available, including the lots at Dollar General, Weis, Redner’s and the Hamburg Area High School. While they fill up fast, there are also lots located at both 4th & Pine streets and on N. 3rd Street that accommodate those who are handicapped.
You can take your spot along the parade route any time after 6pm (the streets officially close at 6:30pm), but you are kindly asked not to throw candy or confetti at any time. You are more than welcome to pass out sweets to those on the sidewalk (as many restaurants and past others businesses do), but any and all projectile confections are strictly prohibited.
For more info, visit kingfrost.1usa.com or contact the Hamburg Jaycees at 610.562.1684.
